Greece Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Required for specific nationalities transiting through Greek airports
- Valid for staying within the international transit zone only
- Standard Schengen visa fee applies to most applicants
- Exemptions exist for holders of visas from the US, Canada, and Japan
- Typically processed within 15 calendar days
- Requires proof of onward travel to a non-Schengen country
- Mandatory for citizens of certain 'high-risk' countries as per EU law
Processing time
15 calendar days
During peak summer travel seasons, processing times can extend to 30 or 45 days. Always apply early.
Estimated cost
~$120 (including service fees)
- Standard Visa Fee (Adults)€80 / ~$88
- Standard Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€40 / ~$44
- VFS Global / Outsourcing Service FeeVaries by location
Requirements
- Applicant must be a citizen of a country requiring an Airport Transit Visa for Greece.
- Onward flight must be to a destination outside the Schengen Area.
- The transit must take place within the international zone of the airport.
- A valid passport with at least two blank pages.
- Proof of legal residence in the country from which you are applying.
- No intent to stay in Greece or enter the Schengen zone.
- Must not be considered a threat to public policy or national security.
- Proof of onward travel (confirmed flight itinerary).
- Evidence of entry permit for the final destination country.
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport or travel document (valid for 3 months beyond departure from Greece)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (Schengen compliant)
- Visa for the final destination country (if required)
- Confirmed onward flight tickets to a non-Schengen destination
- Evidence of accommodation (if the transit involves an overnight stay)
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the transit
- Travel health insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Check if your nationality is on the list of countries that require an Airport Transit Visa (Type A) for Greece.
- 2
Complete Application Form
Fill out the official Schengen Visa application form, ensuring you select 'Airport Transit' as the purpose of your journey.
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect all required paperwork, including flight itineraries, photographs, and the visa for your final destination.
- 4
Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest Greek Consulate or authorised visa application centre (like VFS Global).
- 5
Submit at Visa Centre
Attend your appointment to submit documents and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) if required.
- 6
Pay the Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa fee and any applicable service charges at the time of your application.
- 7
Await Processing
Wait for your application to be processed. You can usually track the status online via the service provider's portal.
- 8
Collect Passport
Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the visa centre or wait for it to be delivered via courier.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your flight does not require a terminal change that involves passing through immigration.
- Double-check that your passport is valid for at least three months after your transit date.
- Provide a clear, high-resolution copy of the visa for your final destination country.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until you have confirmed the visa requirements for your specific route.
- Ensure your travel insurance specifically covers the date of transit.
- Be honest about your travel history and any previous Schengen visa refusals.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.